Simplify: Back to BasicsSample

Finances

Sometimes our finances need detangling. The more responsibilities we have, the more complicated our finances become. If you are the type who doesn't want to open your mail because you know it's just going to be bills, if you have stacks of receipts everywhere, if you have no idea how much is coming in or going out, this may be an area that could use some simplifying.

Get Organized

Jesus knew we would have trouble with the earthly concept of money and possessions--that's probably why he talked about it so much in the Bible. Being a good steward of all he's blessed us with includes knowing what is coming in and going out, paying our bills on time, and saving for emergencies and the future. We can impact our legacy for the better (or, the worse) with our attention to money.

Proverbs 13:22 says A good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous. Whether you have much or little, stewardship is still important. To understand where your money goes, you need to have a system for keeping track of important documents, and you will have to work through your money obstacles.

Get Help

Most of us don't have the financial know-how it takes to have legacy stewardship. This world tells us the biggest, best, brightest, and shiniest is the only one that will do, but that is a lie. If there are aspects of money you don't understand--taxes, investments, the stock market, and other intimidating money subjects--ask for help. Find a money coach, an investment advisor, or an accountant. Ask questions, and make sure you understand before you make money decisions.

Get Generous

"Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." (Malachi 3:10 NIV)

To provide for God's kingdom on earth, we need to get generous. That means tithing, offering, and helping out others with our funds. Money is hard to come by, and we all want to take care of our families. In this verse in Malachi, though, the Lord promises that as we return the tithe (a tenth) to him, he will throw open the floodgates. He will do more with your 90% than you could ever do with the full 100% of your paycheck.

If you are not tithing yet but want to start, maybe start small--give 2% or 5% and then increase. Giving regularly keeps you from staying focused on your circumstances. Giving generously is an act of worship when we give to the Lord.

Prayer: Father, show me ways to organize my finances. Please point me to people who can teach me the things I need to know about money so that I can be generous, pay my bills, and save for the future. I want to be a good steward of all you have blessed me with, but I need your help. Thank you for blessing me and keeping your promises. In Jesus' name, amen!